Probe suggests ‘deliberate interference’ in signalling system; CBI takes over Odisha train accident investigation
The CBI is set to take over the investigation into the Odisha train accident while the Congress and other opposition parties questioned the need to hand over the case to the CBI.
PremiumThe Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is poised to take charge of the investigation into the Odisha train accident, which claimed the lives of 275 people and left over 1,100 injured. The decision to involve the CBI was prompted by findings from a preliminary probe that suggested "deliberate interference" in the signalling system, necessitating a thorough investigation by a professional agency.
In accordance with the established procedure, the CBI will take over the Balasore GRP case number 64, which was initially registered by the Odisha Police on June 3. The case has been filed under multiple IPC sections, such as those concerning causing hurt, endangering lives through rash or negligent action, and common intention.
Additionally, sections of the Railways Act addressing unlawful and negligent actions endangering the lives of railway passengers have been invoked.
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Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who has been overseeing the restoration work at the crash site, announced on Sunday evening that a CBI probe had been recommended into the accident. Earlier speculations of sabotage and tampering with the electronic interlocking system, which detects train presence, had surfaced as potential causes for the collision involving the Shalimar-Chennai Central Coromandel Express, the Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express, and a goods train.
As investigations proceed, concerns have been raised by opposition parties, including the Congress, regarding the need for a CBI probe. However, railway officials assert that the agency's involvement is crucial due to the wealth of information obtained during the preliminary inquiry, necessitating the expertise of a professional investigative body.
"Unless there is deliberate interference in the system, it is impossible that a route set for the main line is switched to the loop line," PTI quoted a Railways official as saying.
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While the CBI takes charge of the investigation, the focus remains on restoring confidence in the safety of railway operations and preventing future mishaps. The Odisha train accident has underscored the importance of stringent measures to safeguard the integrity of signalling systems and the need for a thorough examination of railway safety practices.
Several political parties in Odisha, including the Congress and Left parties, have rejected the idea of a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the Balasore train crash. Instead, they are demanding the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to ensure an impartial inquiry into the incident. Furthermore, these parties have called for the resignation of Vaishnaw to facilitate an unbiased investigation.
(With PTI inputs)
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